Line guide device, in particular for clean room applications, shell portions and support rib structure for same

ABSTRACT

A line guide device for lines like for example cables, hoses or the like, in particular for a clean room application, which has a flexible sheath. The sheath is designed in the manner of a corrugated tube and has a corrugated profile for the purposes of flexibility. The sheath has an asymmetric bending characteristic in relation to curvature about the direction-changing axis and to opposite curvature such that the permitted bending sag is considerably less than the desired curvature. There is proposed a particular configuration of shell portions for constructing the sheath, in particular in respect of the corrugated profiles and the fixing of the shell portions. A further aspect concerns a supporting skeleton for a corrugated tube.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of U.S. application Ser.No. 15/512,269 filed Jul. 17, 2017 which is a U.S. National StageCompletion of PCT/EP2015/071449 filed on Sep. 18, 2015 which claimspriority to German Application Nos. 20 2014 104 458.2 filed on Sep. 18,2014 and 20 2015 101 688.3 filed on Apr. 2, 2015.

FIELD

The present invention concerns a line guide device for lines like forexample cables, hoses or the like, which has a first end for fixing to astationary connecting location and a second end for fixing to a furtherconnecting location moveable relative thereto. Between its ends the lineguide device forms an upper run, a displaceable direction-changingcurve, and a lower run. The direction-changing curve is curved orpivoted about a direction-changing axis, preferably with a predeterminedradius of curvature, and is typically displaceable in the planeperpendicular to the direction-changing axis.

BACKGROUND

U.S. Pat. No. 5,069,486 A and EP 0 197 546 B1 describe an energy guidechain for three-dimensional movements, for example on a robot. In thatcase individual link members are composed of shell portions. They engageinto each other forming a ball joint connection. Special seals can bepresent in the joints, to protect the guided lines for example frommoisture. Such a chain however does not prevent abrasive particles frombeing given off, which are produced by the adjacent link members rubbingagainst each other.

In operation of a line guide device, abrasion generally inevitablyoccurs with time, that is to say small particles are produced caused byfriction between the lines and/or the components of the line guidedevice.

The invention concerns in particular a line guide device for suchapplications in which abrasion is not to be produced. That is the casefor example in a clean room application. U.S. Pat. No. 6,773,297 B1 andEP 1 319 865 B1 describe additional or intermediate frames which aremounted individually around the joint connections of a conventionalenergy guide chain and are operative to prevent abrasive particles fromescaping. This too is complicated and expensive to produce and laterhandle. Unlike the solution disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,012,205 498 A1that approach cannot reduce the occurrence of abrasion particles.

A line guide device of the general kind involved here is previouslyknown from German Utility Model DE 20 2013 101 203 U1 which has aflexible sheath in the manner of a corrugated tube. That corrugatedtube-like sheath or envelope dust-tightly surrounds the interior of theline guide device, both in the longitudinal direction between the twoends and also in the peripheral direction. The unwanted discharge ofabrasive particles is prevented in a simple but effective manner by thedust-tight sheath.

A substantial advantage of the structure in accordance with DE 20 2013101 203 U1 is that the sheath can be subsequently fitted as a line guideto per se known energy guide chains, that is to say, in that respectthere is no need for special complicated and expensive structures forprotecting the lines.

In this connection it is also already known for so-called cableprotection tubes to be used as a line guide device of the general kindset forth here. These are generally used when the mechanical loading onthe line guide device turns out to be relatively low. Thus for exampleGerman laid-open application DE 10 2012 000 798 A1 describes such acable protection tube of an approximately rectangular cross-section,wherein an additional device is provided for dividing the interior intoa plurality of tube regions for the various lines. That device has anelongate flexible carrier and separating ribs projecting radiallytherefrom. An embodiment provides that engagement elements on theseparating ribs engage from the interior into troughs defined by thecorrugated configuration in the protective tube and thereby preventkinking. A disadvantage with the structure of DE 10 2012 000 798 A1 isfirstly the effort required for manufacture. On the other hand, withthat solution long self-supporting lengths for example for the upper runcan be achieved at best with additional auxiliary means.

Another dust-tight line guide device is already known from internationalpatent application WO 2005/071284 A1 and U.S. Pat. No. 7,784,259 B2.This involves a monolithic tube-like casing produced by an extrusionprocess. In that case one side is more flexible in the peripheraldirection than the other side. Thus, the one side can be bent in theperipheral direction over the other side to close the casing. Thatstructure also allows only relatively short self-supporting lengths.

An approach which goes further in this respect is known from Germanlaid-open application DE 10 2012 100 290 A1 and US patent application US2012 2005 498 A1. That discloses a jointed protective and guide devicefor cables and the like, which is also intended to prevent fine dustproduced by abrasion from being set free. For that purpose, there isalso provided a flexible tube-like sheath element, but with a pluralityof tubular individual receiving passages in order to guide the linesseparately from each other. Provided at both sides of the tubular sheathis a respective support chain which is hingedly composed of link membersand which limits the curvature radius of the direction-changing curveand on the other hand prevents bending sag in the self-supporting upperrun. Like the line guide device in DE 20 2013 101 203 U1 that solutionlinks the advantages of conventional energy guide chains in respect ofmechanical loading and self-supporting lengths with a protection, whichis also suitable for critical applications, to prevent the escape ofabrasive particles. The solution in accordance with DE 10 2012 100 290A1 is however more complicated and expensive to manufacture as specialproduction involving special plastic link members is used for thesupport chains. A further disadvantage of the solution in accordancewith DE 10 2012 100 290 A1 is that repair of an individual line or asupport chain is possible only after the line guide device has beencompletely dismantled. The band or sheath element which is extruded inone part in accordance with DE 10 2012 100 290 A1 cannot be opened inportion-wise fashion.

The line guide device referred to in the opening part of thisspecification, as disclosed in DE 20 2013 101 203 U1 accordingly formsthe basic starting point for the present inventions.

SUMMARY

A) First Group of Inventions:

A first object of the invention is accordingly that of proposing a lineguide device which affords good protection from the unwanted issue ofabrasion-induced particles and which can be produced with less effort incomparison with the state of the art.

In a line guide device of the general kind set forth, in accordance withclaim 1, that object is already attained in that the sheath is in theform of a corrugated tube and has a corrugated profile which at leastpromotes flexibility and that the dust-tight sheath has an asymmetricbending behaviour in relation to the desired curvature about thedirection-changing axis and in relation to the basically undesiredopposite curvature. The asymmetry is such that the permitted bending sagof a self-supporting region is considerably less in comparison with thedesired curvature, that is to say the curvature in thedirection-changing curve. That asymmetry can be inherent in the sheathor can be achieved or enhanced by additional means, in particularattachment parts.

The desired curvature about the direction-changing axis or curvatureinwardly is referred herein for simplification purposes as a “concave”curvature while the unwanted opposite curvature or curvature outwardlyis referred to as the “convex” curvature.

An asymmetric bending behaviour can be achieved in particular by virtueof the sheath having a lower degree of in particular axialcompressibility radially outwardly or at the outside of itsperiphery—with respect to the direction-changing axis—than radiallyinwardly or at the inside of its periphery, that is to say the outsidecan be compressed to a lesser degree in particular in the longitudinaldirection of the sheath.

The corrugated tube-like configuration of the sheath can basically be ofany kind insofar as it ensures the required flexibility. Typically, thesheath for that purpose has corrugation peaks and troughs or inwardlyand outwardly extending portions, that is to say a corrugated profile,as considered in longitudinal section. A large number of differentprofiles are possible in that respect, for example a curved profile, forexample an approximately sine wave-shaped profile, an angular profile,for example a rectangular profile, a hybrid shape with rounded edges andso forth. The cross-section of the sheath is also not crucial, thuscircular, slot-shaped or approximately rectangular cross-sections and soforth can be considered.

What is decisive for the following aspects of the invention in contrastis that the bending behaviour has an asymmetric bending characteristic,in particular a flexibility which is of differing magnitude depending onthe respective bending direction, at least in the plane in which theupper run, the lower run and the direction-changing curve extend, thatis to say the plane in which the direction-changing curve isdisplaceable. In other words, in the portion being considered, theflexibility with a bending moment of equal magnitude is dependent inpredetermined fashion on the direction of rotation of the bendingmoment.

That provides that the sheath itself, that is to say even without usinga conventional energy guide chain or special support chain, ensures anadequate support function in the self-supporting region. In addition,this provides that the sheath itself can guide and carry the lines.Accordingly, it is possible to completely dispense with a support chainor typical energy guide chain. In other words, in comparison with DE 202013 101 203 U1 a line guide device according to the invention providesthat the sheath which is provided initially for affording sealingintegrity in relation to dust at the same time takes over substantialfunctions of conventional energy guide chains. The sheath considered initself can be adapted to limit the radius of curvature in thedirection-changing curve on the one hand, but also in regard to avoidingexcessive bending sag in the upper run and/or in the lower run. In otherwords, the sheath itself, optionally with attachment parts for bothcases, can ensure a different minimum radius for the curvature orbending.

Accordingly, the sheath considered in itself is preferably not onlyself-supporting but is also in the form of a carrier for the lines.Accordingly, lines can be guided directly in the sheath without anadditional device for receiving the lines. All details in respect offunction and configuration relating to the sheath and in particulardetails in respect of shape and dimensions relate in the present case,insofar as something different is not evidently intended, to the restcondition or the load-free condition of the sheath. In the present case,unless otherwise stated, the bending sag relates to the bending in thestraight condition with a nominal line loading, but without other loador without overload. Dust-tight in the present context does notnecessarily mean hermetically gas-tight or closed in such a way thatnothing can enter or escape. Rather dust-tight means technically sealedin relation to the escape of abrasive particles of typical grain sizes,which in conventional energy guide chains are produced by the chain linkmembers or the lines rubbing against each other.

The application of the invention however is not limited to clean roomapplications. Joint connections with frictional rubbing can be avoidedby virtue of the inherent flexibility. By virtue of the asymmetricflexibility and the lesser degree of bending sag that this entails thesheath is suitable at least for short self-supporting lengths.

Asymmetric bending behaviour in accordance with the invention occurs atleast over a length portion of the line guide device. The flexibilitycan possibly also be differently asymmetric and/or symmetrical inportion-wise fashion. In particular a flexibility which varies over thelength is also in accordance with the invention. Similarly, aconfiguration which is substantially in one plane is respectivelyimplemented in the individual portions, wherein planes can also differin portion-wise manner and for example can be disposed perpendicularlyto each other. In a preferred configuration the corrugated tube-likesheath even when completely filled with lines—in comparison with thedesired concave curvature—allows only a very slight or substantially noconvex curvature, that is to say only very slight or substantially nobending sag. It is thus possible to ensure an optimum, approximatelystraight configuration for the upper run. For that purpose, in theunloaded condition the sheath can involve a slight concave pre-curvatureor pre-stressing.

An asymmetric, direction-dependent bending behaviour can be achieved forexample by the sheath being made from at least two different materials,in particular plastics involving different flexibility. A suitabledistribution of material over the cross-section can already ensure thedesired characteristic.

The following two aspects are respectively based on the above-discussedconcept of the invention which is common to the first group.

A) 1) First Aspect (“e-Skin”):

In accordance with a first aspect, in a particularly simple embodiment,the asymmetric bending behaviour is achieved at least predominantly orexclusively in that the corrugated tube-like sheath at the outside ofits periphery has a different corrugated profile than at the inside ofits periphery. The desired curvature characteristic of the sheath initself can be predefined or predetermined by a differing profileconfiguration at the two sides. Accordingly, no additional componentslike for example support or guide chains are required for that purpose.The various profiles at the two sides of the sheath, besides thedirection-dependent flexibility, can also predetermine a pivotal planeor curvature plane for the sheath. In addition, the profileconfiguration, in particular at the outside, can be so selected that oneof the two corrugated profiles enjoys higher shear and compressionstrength than the other profile. The various profiles can be made fromthe same material or from differing material.

In a preferred configuration with different profiles which inter aliapermits only slight or no compression in the longitudinal direction atthe outside the corrugated tube-like sheath at the outside has a profilewith corrugation troughs, the internal axial width of which is less than20%, in particular less than 10%, of the axial width of the corrugationpeaks. In that way there is only very little free space for compressionat the outside. Compression of the corrugation peaks themselves can inturn be reduced or prevented by the configuration thereof.

In an advantageous embodiment the corrugated profile of the outside orradially outwardly is of an omega shape in longitudinal section. In thatcase corrugation peaks have flanks which are bulged out towards theends. The profile is of such a configuration that in the straightposition of the sheath, in particular in the self-supporting upper run,those flanks bear against each other at both sides.

In a preferred configuration with differing profile at the inside andoutside the corrugated tube-like sheath at its inside has a corrugationprofile with corrugation troughs, the internal axial width of which isat least 50% of the axial width of the corrugation peaks and inparticular is approximately of the same size. Thus, in particular a perse known tried-and-tested profile can be provided at the inside.

Various profiles at the two sides of the sheath can be implemented inparticular in plastic, by suitable methods in plastic technology, evenin the case of sheaths which are produced portion-wise or which are inone piece over the entire length. One-piece sheaths are dust-tight ontheir own.

Production of the corrugated tube-like sheath, which is simple andvariable more easily in the curvature radius is made possible if it iscomposed portion-wise as a modular structure, for example being composedfrom two shell portions with differing profiles. Thus, for example shellportions at the inside with various predetermined curvature radii can becombined with a shell portion at the outside, which prevents bendingsag. The intersection at which the two shell portions are joined is inthat case preferably at the level of the neutral fibre of the line guidedevice where dust-tight connection between the parts is simplified byvirtue of minimum relative movement.

Separately produced shell portions can also be produced from differingmaterial without particular complication and effort.

A structure for the sheath with portions comprising two shell portionsalso makes it possible for at least one shell portion and preferably theoutward shell portion to have one or more separating legs formedthereon, which divide the internal space in its cross-section. Abrasiondue to friction between the lines is minimised or avoided by virtue ofthe division into a respective passage region for each line.

The line guide device according to the first aspect is particularlylight, it runs with a low level of noise and vibration, it involves alow level of maintenance and it can be produced relativelyinexpensively. Accordingly, it can be used in a large number ofapplications.

The first aspect finally also concerns the shell portion for theproduction of a line guide device in accordance with one of the aboveembodiments. For that purpose, the shell portion can be made in onepiece from flexible plastic material and in longitudinal section canhave a corrugated profile with an asymmetric bending behaviour inrelation to a curvature about a direction-changing axis and an oppositebending effect. In accordance with the invention the corrugated profileis so selected that the permitted bending is considerably less, incomparison with the desired curvature. That can be achieved inparticular by a corrugated profile of an omega shape, with corrugationpeaks which have bulged-out flanks towards the ends, and wherein thecorrugation profile is of such a configuration that those flanks are incontact with each other at both sides in the straight position, that isto say in a self-supporting region.

A) 2) Second Aspect (“e-Rib”):

According to a second aspect alternatively or supplemental to the firstaspect for determining the curvature characteristic or for achieving orenhancing asymmetric flexibility a separate supporting rib structure(referred to in English as the “supporting skeleton”) which is fittedfrom the outside with transverse ribs extending in the peripheraldirection can be provided. With this approach the sheath can be inparticular in the form of a conventional corrugated tube with a bendingcharacteristic which in itself is symmetrical or independent ofdirection. Together with the supporting skeleton as an attachmentportion the corrugated tube with conventional profiling then forms thesheath according to the invention.

In a first embodiment of the second aspect the sheath has a separatesupporting skeleton which is fitted from the outside and which hastransverse ribs which extend in the peripheral direction and which at anoutside include projections projecting in the longitudinal direction asabutments to prevent bending sag. In that case the projections are ofsuch a configuration that, by virtue of the projections, in a straightor self-supporting position of the sheath, the transverse ribs are incontact with each other. Preferably two projections which are shaped inmutually conjugate relationship are respectively provided in particularon each transverse rib at both sides. The projections of adjacenttransverse ribs can cooperate in that case, in particular in centringrelationship, to increase the length and also the lateral stability ofthe self-supporting part, in particular the upper run. That structurehas the advantage that it is compatible with a conventional corrugatedtube of various diameters within a nominal range. A development canprovide that the supporting skeleton has at both sides flexible holdingarms projecting in the peripheral direction. They make it possible forthe supporting skeleton to be held at the outside to the sheath,similarly as when using clips or open clamping shells.

In a second embodiment of the second aspect, that is to say with asupporting skeleton in the form of a separate component fitted to thesheath, the transverse ribs can engage from the outside or at theoutward side into the corrugated profile of the corrugated tube-likesheath. In that way the transverse ribs which for example engage overhalf the periphery, together with the corrugation peaks, jointly form ameans for stiffening the arrangement to resist bending sag as thecorrugation troughs are occupied.

In an alternative third embodiment of the second aspect the supportingskeleton for achieving asymmetric flexibility can also be disposed inthe internal space, that is to say with transverse ribs which engagefrom the inside or at the inward side into the corrugated profile. Thearrangement at the interior is more complicated and expensive but itinherently avoids even theoretically possible abrasion between thesupporting skeleton and the sheath.

The transverse ribs of the separate supporting skeleton in the secondand third embodiments of the second aspect make it possible inparticular in a simple fashion to reduce the internal axial width or thefree space between corrugation peaks and/or corrugation troughs at theoutside, with respect to the direction-changing curve, in comparisonwith the corresponding free space between corrugation peaks and/orcorrugation troughs at the inward side. In addition, the curvature planeand/or the curvature radius can also be predetermined by theconfiguration of the supporting skeleton.

Preferably the supporting skeleton in the second or third embodiment isof such a configuration that a corresponding transverse rib engages intoat least every third corrugation of the corrugated profile, preferablyinto every corrugation of the corrugated profile. The axialcompressibility of the outside is considerably reduced in that way.

For determining the curvature characteristic, it is advantageous inrelation to all embodiments if the supporting skeleton has two mutuallyopposite carriers which extend in the longitudinal direction and whichcarry the transverse ribs, wherein the carriers are preferably disposedat the level of the neutral fibre of the line guide device orpredetermine that fibre, for example in the case of a conventionalcorrugated tube as the sheath. The supporting skeleton is preferablyproduced in one piece, in particular in the form of a plastic injectionmoulding. Corresponding carriers can be fixed at both ends to theconnecting locations in order to carry tensile and compressive forceupon displacement of the direction-changing curve and thus to relievethe load on the actual sheath. It is accordingly advantageous if thesupporting skeleton is of a longitudinal extent which at leastcorresponds to the maximum length of the upper run, preferably theoverall length of the line guide device. Lateral stability in relationto bending out of the curvature plane can be achieved by the supportingskeleton, in particular the carriers.

For adaptation of the receiving capacity, it is advantageous if thecarriers have lateral fixing means for connection to the supportingskeleton of a further sheath. In that way a plurality of sheaths can befixed in parallel relationship to each other to form a line guide devicewith a larger receiving space therein.

In addition, end fixing means can be provided on the carriers for fixingin the longitudinal direction of successive supporting skeletons andpossibly for the transmission of tensile and shear forces.

As protection from kinking or buckling, in particular for a conventionalcorrugated tube, it is advantageous if the supporting skeleton has atboth sides approximately wedge-shaped or V-shaped relatively shortextensions, tabs or tongues for example as a prolongation of thetransverse ribs transversely relative to the carriers, which engage overa small peripheral extent into the corrugated profile of the inside inorder to predetermine a minimum radius of curvature for thedirection-changing curve by virtue of the included angle of the wedgeshape or V-shape.

For carrying the invention into effect, it is advantageous if a lesserdegree of compressibility, in particular in the axial or longitudinaldirection, is implemented in the cross-section over a portion of theouter peripheral region, which is at least 12.5%, preferably between 25%and 50%, of the full peripheral extent of the sheath. Accordingly, asuitable profile or supporting skeleton should effectively reduce thecompressibility at the outside over a certain angular or peripheralextent of the cross-section.

Particularly when using a supporting skeleton, it is advantageous fordetermining the curvature characteristic if the corrugated profile ofthe sheath is corrugated in parallel annular shape, that is to say it isnot corrugated in a helical or spiral configuration. Desirably thesheath and possibly also the supporting skeleton are made from aflexible plastic, in particular an elastic plastic which has long-termflexural strength, preferably a thermoplastic material.

The invention makes it possible in particular to limit the static convexbending sag to a radius which is greater by a multiple, in particular byat least 10 times, than the static bending radius of the corrugatedtube-like sheath in the case of concave curvature. In that respect theterm static bending radius is used to denote the minimum radius in therest condition (without displacement movement) at which the limit ofplastic deformation is reached.

A module for the modular construction of a supporting skeleton or asupporting skeleton module is also claimed as relevant to the inventionfor the second aspect. It serves together with a sheath including acorrugated tube with corrugated profile for the production of a lineguide device for lines, in particular according to the first and secondembodiments of the second aspect. According to the invention asupporting skeleton module is produced in one piece from flexibleplastic, it has a longitudinal extent, and is of such a configurationthat it can be fitted from the outside to a corrugated tube. It also hasa plurality of transverse ribs extending in a peripheral direction, thatis to say transversely relative to the longitudinal extent. Depending onthe respective embodiment it has transverse ribs which can at leastpartially engage into the corrugated profile of the corrugated tube ortransverse ribs which include projections projecting in the longitudinaldirection in such a way that in a straight or self-supporting positionthe transverse ribs are in contact with each other, in the sense of thecorresponding description hereinbefore. The module can also have all orsome of the above-mentioned further features of the supporting skeleton,in particular carriers, lateral and/or end fixing means for expansion ormodular prolongation, holding arms and so forth.

The use of a supporting skeleton according to the second aspect isadvantageous in particular for small radii in the direction-changingregion as it is here that a particularly soft-elastic material isdesirable for the sheath. The latter resists slight bending sag in theself-supporting region. Depending on the respective application involveda supporting skeleton can also be combined with a profile configurationaccording to the first aspect.

A) 3) Third Aspect (“e-Skin Zipper”):

A further aspect relating to the first group of inventions concerns thestrength and sealing action in relation to dust particles of theconnection for assembly of the individual shell portions, in whichrespect it is possible to achieve in particular an improvement over theteaching of DE 20 2014 104 458 U1.

For that purpose, there is proposed a corrugated tube-like shell portionfor a line guide device, which is formed by a corrugated tube-likesheath which is respectively composed portion-wise from two shellportions, in particular two shell portions of differing profiles.

In principle the shell portions can be connected at the junction in thelongitudinal direction in various ways, for example after manufacture,non-detachably by an adhesive or welding process, in particular aconnecting process which is suitable for plastics like for exampleultrasonic welding. A destruction-free releasable but nonethelesssufficiently firm connection is however preferred, in particular topermit subsequent opening of the sheath.

According to the third aspect of the invention it is therefore proposedthat the shell portion has at both longitudinal sides a fixing bandwhich extends in the longitudinal direction and which in particular iscontinuous and which has a tooth arrangement, preferably with regularlyarranged sprigs or teeth which cooperate with a corresponding tootharrangement on an oppositely disposed shell portion in the fashion of azip fastener. This ensures a good connection between the mutuallyopposite shell portions, that is firmly closed in operation.

As is already the case in the first aspect, good lateral stability canbe achieved inter alia by the fixing bands but also an elongatecross-section and a transversely stiff configuration of the shellportions.

The teeth of the connectors acting similarly to a zip fastener can inparticular have an effective cross-section which at least approximatelycorresponds to the shape of an isosceles trapezium. The effectivecross-section can be for example that of an isosceles trapezium withrounded configurations in the corner regions. In that respect it can beprovided that a narrow side of a trapezoidal tooth faces away from theshell portion to be connected and the converging limbs of thetrapezoidal teeth of two respectively connected parts wedge together.

The wedge-shaped or trapezoidal configuration allows in particularfixing or opening of the oppositely disposed shell portionsapproximately perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction. The teethcan form in particular projections extending the band laterallyoutwardly, in particular in a direction perpendicular to thelongitudinal direction of the shell portion or the line guide device.The teeth can each also project slightly in the direction towards theother shell portion, from the fixing band.

In a further independent aspect of the invention it is proposed that ashell portion has a longitudinal groove cooperating with a correspondingtongue on the other shell portion to be connected, in positively lockingrelationship. Accordingly, the other shell portion, preferably in theregion between the tooth arrangement and the transition to thecorrugated tube-like sheath, has a tongue cooperating in positivelylocking relationship with a corresponding longitudinal groove on theshell portion to be connected. In that way it is possible to furtherimprove the sealing integrity and also the fixing of the shell portionsto each other.

It can be provided that disposed at an end region is a sealingprojection which is directed perpendicularly to the longitudinal axisand which is peripherally continuous while disposed at the other endregion is an inwardly disposed, correspondingly extending sealing grooveinto which the sealing projection of the adjacent portion in thelongitudinal direction can engage in positively locking and/orforce-locking relationship. It is also possible in that way to achieve asealing and fixed connection at the ends. That can also be provided inrelation to shell portions in accordance with the first and possibly thesecond aspects.

In that respect the sealing projection can have an initially convergingcross-section which is thickened at the end and which is preferablysimilar to a mushroom head or a game playing piece.

In regard to all sheaths comprising shell portions it is advantageous ifthe join between the fixing bands forms the neutral fibre of the lineguide device. By virtue of the fact that the layer which upon curvatureinvolves a constant dimension in the longitudinal direction (=neutralfibre) is precisely at the intersection, inter alia a firm connection ofthe shell portions to each other is made possible as they are preventedfrom gaping open upon bending.

All the afore-mentioned aspects are respectively viewed on their own andindependently as inventive and accordingly can also be claimedindependently of each other in divisional applications.

B) Second Group of Inventions (“T-Carrier”):

A further independent object of the invention, taking German UtilityModel DE 20 2013 101 203 U1 as the basic starting point, is to propose aline guide device which reduces possible abrasion between sheath and aguide device arranged in the interior. That further object is attainedindependently of the foregoing description by a line guide deviceaccording to claim 33. Advantageous developments in that respect arerecited in appendant claims 34 to 40.

The second concept which considered in itself is deemed to be inventiveconcerns a line guide device for lines like for example cables, hoses orthe like, in particular for a clean room application, wherein the lineguide device has a first end for fixing to a stationary connectinglocation and a second end for fixing to a connecting location which isrelatively moveable. Between the ends it forms an upper run, adisplaceable direction-changing curve and a lower run, thedirection-changing curve being curved about a direction-changing axis,preferably with a predetermined curvature radius. The line guide devicehas a flexible sheath which dust-tightly surrounds an internal space, inparticular both in the longitudinal direction between the two ends andalso in the peripheral direction.

The second invention which is independent of the above-mentioned firstgroup is characterised in that the sheath is carried by a line guidecomprising interconnecting link members which are flexible or pivotablerelative to each other about the direction-changing axis, wherein eachlink member has two respective mutually opposite side portions and at atleast one side portion, projecting laterally outwardly, at least towardsone side, a fixing projection is provided for fixing the sheath to therespective link member.

That measure already provides that a relative movement and thus abrasionbetween the sheath and the line guide arranged in the interior is verysubstantially excluded. At the same time the production of noise isminimised and construction which is correct as intended, in particularafter maintenance operations, is ensured in a simple fashion.

In a preferred embodiment the side portions of each link member havefirst abutments for limiting the curvature radius in relation to concavecurvature about the direction-changing axis and second abutments forlimiting the opposite convex bending sag. Accordingly, a sheath of asimple construction can be used, without its own carrier and guidefunction.

For predetermining the bending characteristic and avoiding abrasion itis advantageous if there are provided fixing projections at both sides,that is to say at the oppositely disposed side portions of a linkmember. Preferably the fixing projections are formed on the sideportions at the level of the neutral fibre. Thus, for example eveneasily produced half-shells of corrugated tube-like material or otherflexible sheathing shells can be reliably fixed to the line guide.

It is advantageously provided that the fixing projections at the sideportions form a band which is continuous in the longitudinal directionand the sheath is composed portion-wise and as a modular structure fromtwo shell portions. Thus, the shell portions can be fixed to the fixingprojections at the inside and the outside, each in dust-tightrelationship, in a simple fashion.

In a preferred embodiment the side portions, with the exception of thefixing projections, are designed in accordance with the teaching of EP 2142 823 B1. In that case each side portion has a connecting leg whichextends in the longitudinal direction and which is bendable about thedirection-changing axis, as well as a plurality of T-shaped legs whichare substantially perpendicular to the connecting leg, each having a legbase and a longitudinal leg. First T-shaped legs, at ends of theirlongitudinal legs, that face in the longitudinal direction, form thefirst abutments for limiting the curvature radius and oppositelydisposed second T-shaped legs, at ends of their longitudinal legs,facing in the longitudinal direction, form the second abutments forlimiting the bending sag.

As a departure from the above-mentioned teaching the second concept ofthe invention advantageously provides that each fixing projection isformed by a flat lateral prolongation of the corresponding connectingleg and for example is produced in one piece with the side portion.

In addition, a preferred development provides that each link member isproduced in one piece with two side portions, wherein each side portionincludes a fixing projection as well as first and second T-shaped legs.In that arrangement the link member is adapted to be flexible about thedirection-changing axis so that chain linking of such members forms akind of band chain.

It is also in accordance with the second concept of the invention for aline guide in the manner of a typical link chain, for example inaccordance with the teaching of WO 02/086349 A1 or EP 0 803 032 B1, tobe developed with fixing projections according to the invention for thesheath.

The sheath can be in particular in the form of a corrugated tube-likestructure. In principle other tube-like sheaths can also be used, forexample comprising in particular flexurally elastic plastic, with theline guide device according to the second concept of the invention.

Finally, both the embodiments of the first and also the second groups ofinventions can advantageously be developed in respect of sealingintegrity to resist the discharge of fine dust in such a way thatprovided at the first and the second end of the device is a respectiveconnecting flange for dust-tight closure of the ends of the sheath, thatare open there. A development which is preferred in that respectprovides that each connecting flange includes two clamping shells whichcan be dust-tightly connected and which at a front end region hold thesheath in force-locking and/or positively locking relationship anddust-tightly enclose same. Preferably the connecting flange has fixingmeans for fixing purposes, in particular for making the screw connectionto the respective connecting location. Particularly preferably bothclamping shells of each connecting flange have such fixing means so thatthey can be secured to each other at the same time with the fixing tothe connecting location.

In a preferred embodiment each connecting flange, in an end region,preferably in opposite relationship to the front end region, has asuitable pass-through sealing means for passing the lines therethroughin dust sealing relationship.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further details, advantages and features of the invention will beapparent from the description hereinafter of preferred embodiments byway of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 shows a side view illustrating the principle of a line guidedevice according to the invention,

FIGS. 2A-2C show a portion of a first embodiment of a line guide deviceas a perspective view (FIG. 2A), as an enlarged portion (FIG. 2B) and inlongitudinal section parallel to the curvature or movement plane of thedirection-changing curve (FIG. 2C);

FIGS. 3A-3D show a portion of a second embodiment of a line guide deviceas a perspective view (FIG. 3A), as an enlarged portion (FIG. 3B) and inlongitudinal section parallel to the curvature or movement plane of thedirection-changing curve (FIG. 3C), and in cross-section perpendicularlyto the longitudinal direction (FIG. 3D);

FIG. 4A-4C shows a portion of a third embodiment of a line guide deviceaccording to the invention as a perspective exploded view (FIG. 4A), asa perspective assembled view (FIG. 4B) and as an enlarged side view(FIG. 4C);

FIG. 5 shows a variant of the third embodiment of FIGS. 4A-4C with aplurality of sheaths in a vertical cross-section showing the inside ofthe direction-changing curve;

FIG. 6A-6C show a further fourth embodiment in which, in comparison withthe third embodiment of FIGS. 4A-4C, a supporting skeleton is providednot externally but internally on the sheath;

FIGS. 7A-7C show an embodiment of a line guide device according to anindependent invention as a perspective, partly broken-away view of thedirection-changing curve (FIG. 7A), a corresponding side view (FIG. 7B)and as an enlarged cut-away portion (FIG. 7C);

FIGS. 8A-8B show a preferred embodiment of connecting flanges for fixingthe ends of a line guide device to the stationary and moveableconnecting locations respectively;

FIGS. 9A-9C show a module portion of an alternative configuration of asupporting skeleton as a perspective view (FIG. 9A), in cross-section(FIG. 9B) and as an enlarged plan view on to projections with anabutment function (FIG. 9C);

FIGS. 10A-10C show a further embodiment of a shell portion for a sheathas shown in FIGS. 1-3 as a plan view of the inside (FIG. 10A), a partlybroken-away perspective view of the sheath (FIG. 10B) and a longitudinalsection at the level of the ends (FIG. 10C);

FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic side view showing the principle of a lineguide device according to a further independent aspect of the invention;

FIG. 12 shows a view of two corrugated tube-like shell portions which inaccordance with a further independent aspect of the invention areconnected to afford a portion of a line guide device, in particular asshown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 13 shows an enlarged view of the lateral fixing bands of the shellportions of FIG. 12 in the connected condition;

FIG. 14A shows a front view of a portion of a line guide device as shownin FIGS. 11-13;

FIG. 14B shows an enlarged view of the region XIV-B in FIG. 14A;

FIG. 15 shows a side view of the narrow side of a portion of a lineguide device as shown in FIGS. 11-14 with shell portions connected indisplaced relationship in the longitudinal direction, and

FIG. 16 shows a section along lines XVI-XVI in FIG. 14A of the sealedconnection at the ends of adjacent shell portions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In FIG. 1 a diagrammatically shown line guide device is generallydenoted by 100. The line guide device 100 serves for protectedly guidingcables, hoses or the like lines which are not shown in greater detail inthe views. Between an upper run 101 and a lower run 103 the line guidedevice 100 in known manner forms a direction-changing curve 104 ofpredetermined curvature. To avoid line breakages, the direction-changingcurve 104 has in particular a predetermined minimum curvature radius andthus ensures that the curvature radius does not fall below thepermissible curvature radii of the lines being guided.

The direction-changing curve 104 is displaceable over a distancerelative to the stationary connection 105 together with the moveableconnection 107. The movement takes place substantially in a plane whichhere is approximately vertical and follows the movement of the moveableconnection 107. In the illustrated example the stationary connection 105is at the upper run 101 and the moveable connection 107 is at the lowerrun 103. The two ends of the line guide device 100 can also be connectedin the reverse fashion.

FIG. 1 also diagrammatically shows as an essential aspect of theinvention a flexible sheath 110 which surrounds the lines guided in theinterior in the peripheral direction and between the two connections105, 107 in continuously closed and technically dust-tight relationship.As can be seen from FIG. 1 the sheath 110 is of a tube-likeconfiguration and is sufficiently flexible, for example by means of asuitable design configuration and/or choice of material, to accommodatethe fixedly predetermined curvature of the direction-changing curve 104and to follow the displacement movement of the direction-changing curve104 with the minimum possible resistance.

FIGS. 2A-2B show a first embodiment of a line guide device 200 accordingto the invention with a sheath 210. The sheath surrounds an internalspace 208 in dust-tight relationship so that abrasive particles cannotescape. The sheath 210 has an asymmetric bending behaviour in relationto concave and convex curvature about the direction-changing axis(indicated diagrammatically at A in FIG. 1). For that purpose the sheath210 at its inside 211 (that is to say radially inwardly of the broadside) and its outside 212 (that is to say radially outwardly of thebright side) has corrugated tube-like profiles which however arerespectively of different kinds. As shown in FIG. 2C the profile at theoutside 212 has corrugation peaks 214, the shape of which inlongitudinal section (FIG. 2C) is approximately Ω-shaped (omega-shaped)so that flanks 215, which are bulged out at the ends, of the corrugationpeaks 214 are in contact with each other in the straight position of thesheath 210 at both sides of the corrugation peaks 214 respectively. Itis thus possible in a simple fashion to provide that the sheath 210permits only slight or substantially no convex bending sag in the otherdirection, in comparison with the desired concave curvature about thedirection-changing axis A (see FIG. 1). The sheath 210 itself can ensurean approximately straight configuration for the upper run, even when thelatter is loaded with the weight of the guided lines (not shown). Toenhance the carrier force of the profile at the outside 212 it isfurther provided that, at the outside 212, the corrugation troughs 216between the corrugation peaks 214 are of a very small free or internalaxial width B2, here for example less than 20% of the axial width of thecorrugation peaks 214 at the outside 212. The internal axial width B2 ofthe corrugation troughs 216 at the outside 212 is also markedly lessthan the corresponding internal axial width B1 of the corrugationtroughs 218 at the inside 211.

As FIG. 2C shows the corrugated tube-like sheath 210, viewed inlongitudinal section through the central region, at the inside 211 incontrast to the outside 212, can involve a conventional profile, forexample a rounded corrugated profile, with corrugation troughs 218 andcorrugation peaks 220 whose largest dimension in the longitudinaldirection or axial width is respectively approximately the same.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A-2C the line guide device 200 iscomposed portion-wise of pieces of the sheath 210 as shown in FIG. 2A.In this example each piece is produced in one piece, in particular fromplastic, in the longitudinal direction and in the peripheral direction.For connecting two pieces of the sheath 210 they respectively have at anend a completely peripherally extending latching ring 219. The latchingring 219 can be latched in positively locking relationship into theopposite end 217 in the manner of a tongue-and-groove connection. Inthis arrangement each latching groove, in comparison with thecorrespondingly conjugate fitment at the opposite end 217, can involve aslight excess dimension so that it is possible to achieve a dust-tightpress fit.

As FIG. 2B best shows, flange-like longitudinal struts 222 are providedat the level of the neutral fibre of the line guide device 200 at thetransition between the inside 211 and the outside 212. The longitudinalstruts 222 are integrally joined to the material which forms twoadjacent corrugation peaks 214 at the outside of the sheath 210. Thus,together with the flanks of the corrugation peaks 214, that act asabutments, this arrangement provides a stable structure which permitseven long self-supporting lengths with the line guide device 200completely filled, without troublesome bending sag. To enhance thateffect the pieces produced in one piece, as shown for example in FIG.2A, can already be concavely pre-curved in the load-free position, thatis to say they are produced with an inherent prestressing in relation tothe straight position. The longitudinal struts 222 also increase theshear and compression strength, that is to say the mechanicalload-bearing capacity of the sheath 210, so that it is possible toproduce a line guide device 200 of great overall length.

FIGS. 3A-3C show a second embodiment of a line guide device 300 whichalso has a sheath 310 with an asymmetric bending characteristic inrelation to curvature concavely and convexly about thedirection-changing axis A. For that purposes, similarly to FIGS. 2A-2C,provided at the outside 312 is a different profile from that at theinside 311. Corresponding or identical features in comparison with FIGS.2A-2C are accordingly provided with correspondingly increased referencesand the description thereof is not repeated.

A substantial difference in the second embodiment as shown in FIGS.3A-3D is that the pieces for portion-wise assembly of the sheath 310,unlike FIGS. 2A-2C, are respectively composed of two separately producedshell portions 331, 332, wherein a shell portion 331 with a profileforms the inside 311 of the sheath 310 and the other shell portion 332with a different kind of profile forms the outside 312.

As the enlarged view in FIG. 3B shows the intersection 335 forconnecting the shell portions 331, 332 together is at the level of theneutral fibre of the line guide device 300. As shown by way of examplein FIG. 3B the connection can be made by means of any positively lockingand/or force-locking connection. In the example of FIGS. 3A-3B bothshell portions 331, 332 at the intersection 335 respectively have pressknobs 333 arranged alternately in the corrugation troughs 316 and 318respectively, and receiving means 334 of a correspondingly conjugateshape. Other fixing means suitable for making a dust-tight connectionbetween the shell portions 331, 332 are also in accordance with theinvention. If the connection made is not a connection involving intimatejoining of the materials involved, the second embodiment shown in FIGS.3A-3D facilitates maintenance in comparison with the first example inFIGS. 2A-2C as individual longitudinal portions of the line guide device300 are more easily accessible.

As FIGS. 3A-3C show the shell portions 331, 332 are preferably fixed toeach other with a slight longitudinal displacement relative to eachother, similarly to a brickwork course. Thus, the fixing means providedfor connecting two oppositely disposed shells 331, 332 together, forexample press knobs 333 and corresponding recesses 334, are used at thesame time for strengthening the longitudinal connection of the portionsof the sheath 310 in the longitudinal direction. Accordingly, aconnection between the shell portions 331, 332, that is shear-resistantin the pulling direction, is preferred at the intersection 335. Forsealing integrity to prevent the escape of abrasion-produced fine dusteach shell portion 331, 332 preferably has at an end a kind of sealinglip 339 which sealingly engages into the end corrugation peak 314 at therespectively opposite end 317.

FIG. 3D shows a further difference in the second embodiment incomparison with FIGS. 2A-2C. The two-part production of the longitudinalportions of the sheath 310 provides that separating legs extending inthe plane of movement can be arranged on one of the two shell portions331, 332, for example at the shell portion 332 forming the outside 312,to divide the internal space 308. The various lines can be guidedseparately from each other by the separating legs 340, whereby abrasionbetween those lines is very substantially avoided.

FIGS. 4A-4C show an alternative third embodiment of a line guide device400. Apart from connecting flanges for dust-tightly fixing the ends (asshown by way of example in FIGS. 8A-8B), this line guide devicecomprises only two essential components, namely a sheath 410 and anespecially produced supporting skeleton 440. The sheath 410 which isshown individually in FIG. 4A can be in the form of a conventionalcorrugated tube. Accordingly, the corrugated tube 410 in itself can havea symmetrical bending characteristic in every direction, that is to sayeven in relation to concave or convex curvature about thedirection-changing axis of the direction-changing curve 104 (FIG. 1). Toensure an asymmetric bending characteristic with a considerably reducedconvex flexibility in comparison with the concave curvature about thedirection-changing axis A in the embodiment of FIGS. 4A-4C theseparately produced supporting skeleton 440 is fitted from the outside,in relation to the direction-changing curve 104, at the outside 412 ofthe corrugated tube 410.

The supporting skeleton 440 is asymmetric in respect of its bendingcharacteristic. It can be easily bent concavely about thedirection-changing axis A but only limitedly convexly bent in theopposite direction. As can best be seen from FIG. 4C the supportingskeleton 440 has two oppositely disposed carriers 442 which extend inthe longitudinal direction and on which are provided transverse ribs 444extending substantially perpendicularly, in the peripheral direction.The carriers 442 and transverse ribs 444 can be produced in one piecefrom plastic material, for example by an injection moulding process.

The shaping and configuration of the transverse ribs are adapted to theoutside contour of the cross-section of the sheath 410. In the case of acorrugated tube 410 of approximately round cross-section the transverseribs 444 are approximately in the shape of a circular arc as in FIGS.4A-4B and involve an arc extent of about 180° (see also FIG. 5). Theperipherally extending transverse ribs 444 of the supporting skeleton440 are fixed in mutually parallel relationship at regular predeterminedspacings to the carriers 442 respectively. As FIG. 4C best shows thetransverse ribs 444 serve primarily to substantially fill or close theotherwise free corrugation troughs 420 at the outside 412 of thecorrugated tube 410. In that way the flexibility or bendability in adirection opposite to the concave curvature about the direction-changingaxis A is considerably reduced at the outside 412 by the corrugationtroughs 420, or that is completely prevented, depending on therespective corrugated profile of the corrugated tube 410. The supportingskeleton 440 is therefore preferably of such a design configuration thatthe regular spacing between the transverse ribs 444 corresponds to thecorrugation length, that is to say the periodic spacing between twosuccessive corrugation troughs 420 of the corrugated tube 410. Thistherefore provides that precisely one transverse rib 444 engages intoeach corrugation of the corrugated profile.

In addition to functioning as a reinforcement for the corrugated tube410 the supporting skeleton 440 also has the effect of defining theneutral fibre at the level of the oppositely disposed carriers 442 andat the same time also establishing the plane of movement of thedirection-changing curve 104 (FIG. 1). Connecting means at the ends ofthe supporting skeleton 440 are not shown in greater detail, forrespectively connecting the carriers 442 fixedly to the connectinglocations (see FIG. 8). By virtue of the carriers 442 the supportingskeleton 440 can additionally carry tensile and compressive forces andincrease the service life and load-carrying capability of the corrugatedtube 410. Accordingly the supporting skeleton 440 preferably involves alongitudinal extent corresponding to the total length of the line guidedevice 400 from the one connecting location to the other connectinglocation 105, 107 (FIG. 1).

Finally FIG. 4C shows tab-like or tongue-like extensions 446 provided atboth sides as a tangential prolongation of the transverse ribs 444. Theextensions 446 are approximately wedge-shaped or V-shaped in side view.The extensions 446 are of a very short extent in the peripheraldirection, in comparison with the periphery of the corrugated tube 410,and form a predetermined spread angle between the end limbs which facein the longitudinal direction. As FIGS. 4B-4C show the extensions 446engage over a short peripheral extent at the outside into thecorrugation troughs 420 of the corrugated tube 410. By virtue of apredetermined angular extent for the angle between the oppositelydisposed limbs of the extensions 446, the minimum curvature radius ofthe direction-changing curve 104 of the line guide device 400 comprisingthe corrugated tube 410 and the supporting skeleton 440 ispredetermined.

FIG. 5 shows a development of the embodiment of FIGS. 4A-4C. In thisembodiment, apart from the end connecting flanges, the line guide device500 substantially comprises three corrugated tubes 510 which arearranged laterally one beside the other and parallel and which are heldparallel by supporting skeletons 540. For that purpose three supportingskeletons 540, identical in structure to FIGS. 4A-4C, are respectivelyfixed together laterally with their carriers 542. The supportingskeletons 540 are preferably produced as separate individual parts andhave connecting means on the carriers 542 which are suitable forconnection to the adjacent supporting skeleton 540. In principle aplurality of supporting skeletons 540 can also be made in interconnectedrelationship from one piece.

FIGS. 6A-6C show as a further embodiment of a line guide device 600 amodification of the example shown in FIGS. 4A-4C. The line guide device600 can also substantially comprise a conventional corrugated tube asthe sheath 610, here of approximately rectangular cross-section, and aseparate supporting skeleton 640 for achieving an asymmetric bendingcharacteristic. Unlike the example shown in FIGS. 4A-4C the supportingskeleton 640 of the line guide device 600 is not arranged from theoutside on the corrugated tube 610 but at the inside in the sheath 610in the form of the corrugated tube. As a further difference of substancethe supporting skeleton 640 has both transverse ribs 644 facing towardsthe outside 612 and also transverse ribs 645 facing towards the inside611. The outer transverse ribs 644 engage from the inside into thehollow space in the corrugation peaks 620 at the outside of the sheath610. The inwardly disposed transverse ribs 645 correspondingly engagefrom the inside into the hollow space in the corrugation peaks 620 atthe inside of the sheath 610. The corrugated tube-like sheath 610 initself can have at both sides an identical conventional corrugatedprofile with corrugation troughs 610 and corrugation peaks 620 which areidentical in shape at both sides. Unlike the arrangement shown in theFigures the sheath 610 can be made continuously between both ends. Thesupporting skeleton 640 can be produced in one piece throughout or canbe assembled from individual portions which are successively introducedinto the sheath 610. Alternatively to a conventional corrugated tubewith per se symmetrical bending characteristic it is also conceivable,similarly to FIGS. 2A-2C and FIGS. 3A-3D, for the sheath 610 to becomposed portion-wise from one-part or two-part modules. In thelast-mentioned case the corrugated profile at the inside 611 isdifferent from that at the outside 612.

The asymmetric bending characteristic is crucially achieved with thesupporting skeleton 640 by virtue of the transverse ribs 644 at theoutside 612 being of a greater axial width than the transverse ribs 645at the inside 611. In that way, as is already the case with thepreceding embodiments, the arrangement ensures that the sheath 610enjoys a lower level of compressibility axially or in the longitudinaldirection at its outside 612, than at its inside 611. By virtue of thedifferently shaped transverse ribs 644 and 645 at the inside and outside611 and 612 respectively, the supporting skeleton 640 permits on the onehand reinforcement of the sheath 610 to resist bending sag in theself-supporting upper or lower run 101 and 103 respectively, and at thesame time a limitation in terms of a predetermined curvature radius inthe direction-changing curve 104. For that purpose the inwardly disposedtransverse ribs 644 are of a shorter axial width than the outwardlydisposed transverse ribs 645.

As is already the case in the example of FIGS. 4A-4C, a defined neutralfibre for the bending configuration of the sheath 610 is alsopredetermined by oppositely disposed carriers 642 to which theperipherally extending transverse ribs 644, 645 are fixed. The carriers642 can also be used to carry shear and tensile forces when suitablyfixed together or to the connecting locations respectively.

In all preceding embodiments the lines which are not shown in greaterdetail are received directly in the internal space 208; 308; 408 . . .and are guided and carried by the sheath. For that reason, a particularadditional line guide is not required in the examples of FIGS. 2-6.

FIGS. 7A-7C show a line guide device 700 in accordance with a principlewhich is independent and different from the preceding embodiments.

The line guide device 700 in FIGS. 7A-7C substantially comprises aband-like line guide 760, individual portions 762 fixed together in thelongitudinal direction and a dust-tight one-piece or multi-piece sheath710. Each portion 762 as a member of the line guide 760 has a left-handand a right-hand side portion 764 which are integrally connectedtogether by a continuous carrier band 766 or alternatively are laterallyfixed thereto as separate parts. The carrier band 766 is flexible aboutthe direction-changing axis and is made from a flexibletensile-resistant plastic. To improve flexibility about thedirection-changing axis the carrier band 766 is provided with a patternof holes, the elongate holes of which extend transversely relative tothe longitudinal direction. The dust-tight sheath 710 is composed inmodular fashion from longitudinal sections each having two shellportions 731 and 732 respectively.

As can best be seen from FIG. 7C the portions 762 of the line guide 760each have fixing projections 768 projecting outwardly laterally from theside portions 764. The fixing projections 768 have fixing means 769which occur in succession at regular spacings.

The fixing projections 768 serve for fixing an inner and an outer shellportion 731 and 732 respectively of a sheath 710. FIG. 7B shows as thefixing means 769 for example eyes for fixing by means of a latchingconnection, like by means of a press knob fixing or the like. Otherpositively locking and/or force-locking fixing means 769 are inaccordance with the invention, for example a tongue-and-grooveconnection or other suitable plastic fasteners for example as in U.S.Pat. No. 2,613,421 A.

The fixing projections 768 preferably form one-piece flat prolongationsof the carrier band 766. The fixing projections 768 and the carrier band766 are arranged at the level of the neutral fibre of the line guidedevice 700 or predetermine same. At the same time the plane of movementof the direction-changing curve 104 (see FIG. 1) is predetermined inthat way. Thus, the intersection between the shell portions 731 and 732is also at the level of the neutral fibre.

Each side portion 764 has a connecting leg 770 which extends in thelongitudinal direction and which is flexible about thedirection-changing axis and which is possibly made in one piece with thecarrier band 766 and serves for the transmission of compressive andtensile forces. A further connecting leg can be provided centrally inthe carrier band 766 for transverse stabilisation purposes, as FIG. 7Cbest shows.

Substantially T-shaped legs 771 and 772 are respectively formed at eachside portion 764 at the inside 711 and the outside 712 respectivelyperpendicularly to the carrier band 766 or connecting leg 770. TheT-shaped legs 771, 772 each have a leg base 773 and a longitudinal leg775 and 776 extending in the longitudinal direction. At the ends of thelongitudinal legs 775, extending in the longitudinal direction, theinwardly disposed T-shaped legs 771 form first abutments for limitingthe curvature radius in the direction-changing curve 104. The oppositelydisposed second T-shaped legs 772 on the other hand, at the ends oftheir longitudinal legs 776, facing in the longitudinal direction, formsecond abutments for limiting the convex bending sag in the oppositedirection. The structure, arrangement and function of the T-shaped legs773, 776 correspond to the preferred embodiment of the T-shaped legs inEP 2 142 823 B1, to the content of which reference is made in itsentirety for the avoidance of unnecessary repetition in this respect.

The line guide 760 differs from the band chain-like line guide device inaccordance with EP 2 142 823 B1 in particular by the fixing projections768 for fixing the sheath 710. A further distinction lies in theone-piece production of the portions 762, that is to say the sideportions 764 and the carrier band 766 are made in one piece. Otherwisethe structure and mode of functioning can correspond to the preferredembodiment of EP 2 142 823 B1, in particular in regard to the positivelylocking connectors 778 at the ends at the side portions for chainlinking of the portions 762 in the longitudinal direction.

The sheath 710 in the embodiment of FIGS. 7A-7C can in principle be ofany desired configuration if it is dust-tightly closed. The sheath 710considered in itself can have an asymmetric bending characteristic inrespect of concave and convex curvature about the direction-changingaxis A (see FIG. 1) or however can in that respect involve a symmetricalbending characteristic. Limitation on the curvature radius in thedirection-changing curve 104 is ensured in the line guide device 700 bythe inwardly disposed T-shaped legs 771 of the line guide 760. Longself-supporting lengths on the other hand are ensured by the outwardlydisposed T-shaped legs 772. The shell portions 731, 732 of the sheath710 can be fixed to the line guide 760 in any desired per se knownmanner suitable for making the dust-tight connection, with releasableconnections being preferred.

FIGS. 7A-7C show a sheath 710 which is composed portion-wise from twoshell portions 731, 732 and are secured to fixing projections 768 atboth sides. In an alternative configuration (not shown here) a one-piecesheath which can be pivoted or bent open at the periphery can be fixedonly at one side to one of the side portions 764. For that purpose, itis thus sufficient if fixing projections 768 are provided only at oneside.

FIGS. 8A-8B show a preferred configuration of suitable connectingflanges 880 for end fixing of one of the above-described line guidedevices at the connecting locations 105, 107 (see FIG. 1). In theexample shown in FIGS. 8A-8B the sheath 810 is shown in the form of acorrugated tube or corrugated hose with parallel corrugation andslot-shaped or elongate cross-section, like for example in FIGS. 2A-2C,FIGS. 3A-3D or FIGS. 7A-7C.

FIG. 8B shows an exploded view illustrating only a part of the sheath810 or the line guide device 800, namely one of the two similarlydesigned end regions which are respectively fixed to an identicallydesigned connecting flange 880. The connecting flanges 880 serve at thesame time for dust-tightly closing off the open ends of the sheath 810and fixing same to the connecting locations 105, 107.

For sealing and fixing purposes each connecting flange 880 is composedof two cooperating clamping shells 881, 882 which are in the form ofcover-like injection mouldings which can be dust-tightly connected. Theclamping shells 881, 882 are latchable together by snap-action hooks 883and recesses 884, in which respect other positively locking and/orforce-locking connections, in particular releasable latchingconnections, are also possible. At a front end region 885, the closedclamping shells 881, 882 hold the sheath 810 fixedly in the longitudinaldirection in force-locking and/or positively locking relationship, inparticular positively locking relationship, by engagement into one ormore corrugation troughs, and peripherally dust-tightly seal off thesheath 810, possibly by means of an additional seal (not shown).

As FIGS. 8A-8B show, two pairs of passage openings 887 are provided forconnecting screws 888 on both clamping shells 881, 882 for fixingpurposes. The openings 887 for connecting screws 888 in the rear region886 at the same time permit fixing of a passage seal 890 for the cablesor hoses to be passed therethrough in dust-tight relationship. The seal890 can be clamped on the lines for example by the connecting screws888. The sheath 810 can be sealed off and the ends of the line guide 800can be fixed to the connections 105, 107 (see FIG. 1) by thatconfiguration of the clamping shells 881, 882, in one working step.

The separate seal 890 in each connecting flange 880 is preferablycompressible and/or is provided with apertures for the lines. The seal890 can be for example in the form of a one-piece polyurethane block orin the form of a multi-layer neoprene stack. Provided in the rear endregion of the clamping shells 881, 882 is a respective inwardly disposedholder for the seal 890.

FIGS. 9A-9C show a longitudinal portion of a further embodiment of asupporting skeleton 940, namely an elongate module 941 for portion-wiseassembly to further identical modules 941. For that purpose, provided atthe end on carrier bars 942 are conjugate clip connectors 943A, 943Bhaving latching clip and receiving means in order to link the modules941 and carrier bars 942 lengthwise together. The supporting skeleton940 or module 941 is produced in one piece or integrally from plastichaving long-term flexural strength and has inter alia a plurality oftransverse ribs 944. The transverse ribs 944 extend in cross-section inthe shape of a circular arc over approximately half the peripherybetween the two carrier bars 942 which are parallel in the longitudinaldirection and in that case are arranged parallel to each other at aregular longitudinal spacing. A plurality of holding arms 947 arrangedin paired relationship in a mirror-symmetrical arrangement respectivelyextend in opposite relationship in the cross-section (FIG. 9B) in aregularly parallel condition. The holding arms 947 also extendsubstantially in the shape of a circular arc in cross-section, in eachcase only over a portion of the periphery, for example over about aneighth of the periphery. The holding arms 947 can spread open to fit thesupporting skeleton 940 radially on to a corrugated tube (not shownhere, see 410 in FIG. 4A). The holding arms 947 can merge into thecarrier bars 942 centrally between the transverse ribs 944 in thelongitudinal direction.

By suitable flexibility about the longitudinal axis and by virtue of theholding arms 947 a supporting skeleton 940 comprising modules 941 can beused better than the supporting skeleton in FIGS. 4A-4C, together with acorrugated tube of any corrugated profile, including helical or spiralprofiles, and within tolerance limits, even with different diameters.The holding arms 947 clip to the outside surface of the corrugated tubeand do not have to engage into corrugation troughs. In addition, fitmentto the corrugated tube is perceptibly facilitated in that way.

To limit the minimum curvature radius in the direction-changing curve ordirection-changing region (FIG. 1), the intermediate spacing and thewidth of the holding arms 947 can be adjusted in the longitudinaldirection according to the application involved. Thus, in particularvery small radii can be implemented with a particularly flexiblecorrugated tube.

To provide stiffening against bending sag in opposite relationship tothe desired curvature, in particular in respect of the highly flexiblecorrugated tube, the transverse ribs 944 opposite to the opening betweenthe holding arms 947 have projections 948A, 948B which project in thelongitudinal direction or which bulge out axially and which are shapedintegrally with the transverse ribs 944. The oppositely disposedprojections 948A, 948B are conjugate in shape in plan view, for examplewith a half-moon or sickle shape in respect of the one projection 948Aand with an aperture 949 adapted in radius thereto on the otherprojection 948B. The projections 948A, 948B act as abutments, with whichthe transverse ribs 944 bear against each other in the straight positionas shown in FIG. 9A. The conjugate shaping of the projections 948A, 948Bmeans that in the abutting condition it is possible to achieve acentring or direction-defining action and also a laterally stabilisingaction, that is to say to resist breaking out transversely relative tothe desired direction of curvature, as can best be seen from FIG. 9C.The effective abutment surface area is increased by virtue of thecircular arcuate shape. In addition, engagement between the axialprojections 948A, 948B can also provide stiffening to a certain degreein relation to torsion.

In conjunction with a supporting skeleton 940 comprising modules 941 itis also possible, as is already the case in FIGS. 4-5, to use aconventional corrugated tube as the sheath with a predefined curvaturecharacteristic, that is to say as a line guide, between two relativelymoveable connecting locations (see FIG. 1).

FIGS. 10A-10C show an embodiment of shell portions 1031, 1032, that isan alternative to FIGS. 3A-3D, in which respect only the substantialdifferences in structure are discussed. At one end 1037 which has thesealing lip for engagement into the oppositely disposed end (not shown)the shell portion 1031 in FIGS. 10A-10C has an inner apertured strip1053 with blind holes which are arranged regularly perpendicularly tothe longitudinal direction. A separate separating leg 1040 withcorresponding pins can be selectively fitted into the blind holes in theapertured strip 1053. The separating legs 1040 can be so positioned asto divide the internal space as desired and to guide the linesseparately from each other, as can be seen by way of example from FIGS.10B-10C. The base of the separating leg 1040 with the pin can alsoengage over the two ends 1037 of adjoining shell portions 1031 (this isnot shown here) for axial securing purposes. At the other end theseparating legs 1040 can have a projection which engages in fittingrelationship in such a way that it cannot fall out into a corrugationtrough in the corrugated profile, as shown in FIG. 10C.

At each of the parallel fixing bands 1054 to provide for longitudinalstrutting or longitudinal reinforcement, for the purposes of securing tothe adjacent shell portion (FIG. 10B), the shell portions 1031, 1032respectively have at both ends 1037 respectively cooperating connectors1051, 1052 for the better transmission of forces. The connectors 1051,1052 can be of a configuration for example like a dovetail join. Thefixing mechanism of the fixing band 1054 for the oppositely disposedshell portion 1031 and 1032 respectively has, as shown in FIGS. 10A-10C,teeth for making a connection similarly to a zip fastener, as aredescribed hereinafter in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 12-16.In addition the axial overall length of a shell portion 1031, 1032 asshown in FIGS. 10A-10C is overall shorter than in FIGS. 3A-3D, forexample with an extent over less than ten corrugation periods of thecorrugated profile. The corrugated profile of both shell portions 1031and 1032 however can be as shown in FIGS. 3A-3D.

FIG. 11 shows purely by way of example one of many possibleconfigurations of a line guide device 1100 with a sheath composed of aplurality of longitudinal portions 1100A, 1100B, 1100C in thelongitudinal direction. The join locations between the longitudinalportions 1100A, 1100B, 1100C are only diagrammatically shown in FIG. 11(broken-line boxes). In the first longitudinal portion 1100A the shellportions 1131, 1132, for example in the embodiment as shown in FIGS.3A-3D or FIGS. 12-16, are so arranged that a desired curvature inaccordance with a first direction of rotation about a direction-changingaxis (not shown) is possible and the opposite bending sag in thatportion 1100A is substantially suppressed. In the second longitudinalportion 1100B the shell portions 1131, 1132 are arranged in reversedrelationship or in mirrored relationship with the neutral fibre, that isto say the asymmetric bending characteristic is converse relative to thelongitudinal portion 1100A. The third longitudinal portion 1100C has acorrugated tube 1141 with a symmetrical bending characteristic, that isto say with a corrugated profile which is identical at the wide sides.In the example of FIG. 11 the line guide device 1100 is flexiblesubstantially in the plane of the Figure and stable perpendicularlythereto, that is to say laterally, as the sheath is of an elongate-roundcross-section (see FIG. 3D or FIG. 14B). It is however also possible toachieve a desired three-dimensional configuration for example by meansof suitable transitional sockets between shell portions 1131, 1132 whichare turned through 90°, or by an angularly rotated arrangement ofsupporting skeletons, for example as shown in FIGS. 4A-4C or FIGS.9A-9C, on a corrugated tube with a round cross-section. In that way itis also possible to pre-define a configuration with angularly displacedcurvature axes between individual longitudinal portions.

Further independent aspects of the invention are described hereinafterby means of FIGS. 12-16, with reference to FIG. 1:

In FIG. 1 a diagrammatically shown line guide device is generallyindicated by 100. Such a line guide device 100 serves for protectedlyguiding cables, hoses or the like lines which are not shown in greaterdetail in the views. Between an upper run and a lower run the line guidedevice 100 forms in known manner an approximately U-shapeddirection-changing curve of predetermined curvature. Thedirection-changing curve, to avoid line breakages, has in particular apredetermined minimum curvature radius and thus guarantees that theradius does not fall below the permissible curvature radii of the linesbeing guided.

In regard to the structure of the line guide device 100 generally and inrespect of the particular profiling for the curvature radius of thecorrugation peaks and troughs in the main part of the corrugatedtube-like shell portions 1201, 1202 we refer to the teaching which isexpressly incorporated here in relation to FIG. 1 and FIGS. 2-3 above,in particular the foregoing teaching relating to the corrugated profileof FIG. 2C.

The line guide device 100 forms a dust-tight corrugated tube-like sheathand is composed portion-wise from two respective oppositely disposed,corrugated tube-like shell portions 1201, 1202 of differing profiles,see FIG. 2C. The shell portion 1201 can have a concave prestressing atthe outside.

Each shell portion 1201, 1202 has a fixing band 1204 which is continuousin the longitudinal direction, at the two longitudinal sides. The fixingband 1204 has a respective tooth arrangement with regularly arrangedsprigs 1205 or teeth which cooperate with a corresponding tootharrangement with sprigs 1205 or teeth on the fixing band 1204 of theoppositely disposed shell portion 1201, 1202 in the manner of a zipfastener.

The teeth 1205 are of an identical shape and arrangement on both fixingbands 1204 of a shell portion 1201, 1202. They are arranged at regularspacings or intervals so that they can engage into each other andinterconnect as in a zip fastener. The teeth 1205 are of an effectivecross-section which is more clearly apparent in FIG. 13 and which atleast approximately corresponds to the shape of an isosceles trapezium,wherein the narrow side respectively faces away from the shell portion1201, 1202 that is to be connected, that is to say the converging limbswhen shell portions 1201, 1202 are connected wedge together, as shown inFIG. 13.

Release due to transverse forces and torsion in relation to thelongitudinal direction of the line guide device 100 is thus effectivelyprevented. In addition, the fixing bands 1204 can be fixed together bytranslatory movement or force approximately perpendicularly to thelongitudinal direction of the shell portions 1201, 1202, that is to saywithout considerable curvature of the parts.

The teeth 1205 are made integrally with the fixing bands 1204 and theplastic of the shell portions 1201, 1202. They project laterallyoutwardly transversely or precisely perpendicularly relative to thelongitudinal direction of the line guide device 100, virtually asprolongations of the fixing bands 1204.

FIGS. 14A-14B show in the region between the tooth arrangement with theteeth 1205 and the transition to the corrugated tube-like sheath of theshell portions 1201, 1202, a longitudinal groove 1206 in the fixing band1204 at one side. The longitudinal groove 1206 cooperates in positivelylocking relationship with a corresponding tongue 1207 on the shellportion to be connected. Each shell portion 1201, 1202 can have alongitudinal groove 1206 at one side in the fixing band 1204 and atongue 1207 in the fixing band 1204 at the other longitudinal side. Thelongitudinal groove 1206 and the tongue 1207 are arranged symmetricallyrelative to the central plane so that identical shell portions 1201 and1202 can also be connected together by means of the tongue-and-grooveconnection.

The connection of the longitudinal groove 1206 and the correspondingtongue 1207 has an action in particular of enhancing the sealingintegrity in relation to particle escape, in particular in relation tothe curvature in the direction-changing curve.

Finally FIG. 16 shows as a further aspect a possible sealing arrangementfor the end regions 1208A, 1208B on the shell portions 1201, 1202. Asealing projection 1209A which is directed perpendicularly to thelongitudinal axis and which is peripherally continuous, of an initiallyconverging cross-section which is thickened at the end, for examplesimilarly to a mushroom head or a game playing piece, engages into aninwardly disposed, correspondingly extending sealing groove 1209B at theother end region 1208B. The sealing projection 1209A engages into thesealing groove 1209B in positively locking and/or force-lockingrelationship.

The join which can best be seen in FIG. 13 between the fixing bands 1204here too forms the neutral fibre.

List of references FIG. 1 100 line guide device 101 upper run 103 lowerrun 104 direction-changing curve 105 stationary connecting location 107relatively moveable connecting location 110 sheath A  direction-changingaxis FIGS. 2A-2C 200 line guide device 208 internal space 210 sheath 211inside 212 outside 214 corrugation peaks (external) 215 abutments 216corrugation troughs (external) 217 opposite end 218 corrugation troughs(internal) 219 latching ring 220 corrugation peaks (internal) 222longitudinal struttings B1 internal axial width (inside) B2 internalaxial width (outside) FIGS. 3A-3D 300 line guide device 308 internalspace 310 sheath 311 inside 312 outside 314 corrugation peaks (external)315 abutments 316 corrugation troughs (external) 318 corrugation troughs(internal) 320 corrugation troughs internal) 322 longitudinal struttings331, 332 shell portions 333 press knobs 334 receiving means 335intersection 340 separating legs B1 internal axial width (inside) B2internal axial width (outside) FIGS. 4A-4C 400 line guide device 408internal space 410 corrugated tube 420 corrugation troughs 440supporting skeleton 442 carrier 444 transverse ribs 446 extensions FIG.5 500 line guide device 510 corrugated tube 540 supporting skeleton 542carrier FIGS. 6A-6C 600 line guide device 608 internal space 610 sheath611 inside 612 outside 618 corrugation troughs 620 corrugation peaks 640supporting skeleton 642 carrier 644, 645 transverse ribs FIGS. 7A-7C 700line guide device 710 sheath 711 inside 712 outside 731, 732 shellportions 760 line guide 762 part or member 764 side portion 766 carrierband 768 fixing projections 769 fixing means 770 connecting leg 771, 772T-shaped legs 775, 776 longitudinal legs 778 connector FIGS. 8A-8B 800line guide device 810 sheath 880 connecting flange 881, 882 clampingshells 883 snap hooks 884 recesses 887 through openings 888 connectingscrews 885, 886 end regions 890 passage seal FIGS. 9A-9C 940 supportingskeleton 941 module 942 carrier bar 943A, 943B clip connector 944transverse rib 947 holding arm 948A, 948B projection 949 recess FIGS.10A-10C 1031, 1032 shell portion 1037  end 1040  separating leg 1051,1052 connector 1053  apertured strip 1054  fixing band FIG. 11 1100 line guide device  1100A first longitudinal portion  1100B secondlongitudinal portion  1100C third longitudinal portion 1110  sheath1131  shell portion 1132  shell portion 1141  corrugated tube FIGS.12-16 1201  shell portion 1202  shell portion 1204  fixing band 1205 teeth 1206  longitudinal groove 1207  tongue 1208A, 1208B end region 1209A sealing projection  1209B sealing groove

What is claimed is:
 1. A line guide device for lines, wherein the lineguide device comprises: a first end to fix to a stationary connectinglocation and a second end to fix to a relatively moveable connectinglocation and between the first end and the second end forms an upperrun, a displaceable direction-changing curve and a lower run, whereinthe direction-changing curve is curved about a direction-changing axis,and wherein the line guide device has a flexible tubular sheath thatsurrounds an internal space, wherein a separate supporting skeleton isfitted externally to the sheath, and the supporting skeleton has aplurality of transverse ribs extending in a peripheral direction,wherein, by virtue of the skeleton, the line guide device at least in alongitudinal section has an asymmetric bending behaviour in relation tocurvature about the direction-changing axis and to opposite curvature,wherein, by virtue of the skeleton, the line guide device has apermitted bending sag that is less in comparison with a desiredcurvature, and wherein the supporting skeleton has two mutually oppositecarriers which extend in a longitudinal direction and which carry theplurality of transverse ribs.
 2. The line guide device as set forth inclaim 1, wherein: the transverse ribs include projections projecting inthe longitudinal direction, wherein the projections are conjugate inshape, and the transverse ribs are in abutting contact with each otherin a straight or self-supporting position.
 3. The line guide device asset forth in claim 1, wherein: the tubular sheath is configured as acorrugated tubular sheath and has a corrugated profile.
 4. The lineguide device as set forth in claim 3, wherein: the transverse ribs atleast partially engage into the corrugated profile of the sheath.
 5. Theline guide device as set forth in claim 4, wherein: the supportingskeleton is configured such that one of the transverse ribs at leastpartially engages into at least every third corrugation of thecorrugated profile, respectively.
 6. The line guide device as set forthin claim 1, wherein: the supporting skeleton is formed in one piece. 7.The line guide device as set forth in claim 1, wherein: the carriers aredisposed at a level of a neutral fibre of the line guide device.
 8. Theline guide device as set forth in claim 1, wherein: thedirection-changing curve is displaceable in a plane perpendicular to thedirection-changing axis.
 9. The line guide device as set forth in claim1, wherein: the carriers are fixable at both ends to the connectinglocations, and carry tensile and compressive forces upon displacement ofthe direction-changing curve.
 10. The line guide device as set forth inclaim 1, wherein: the supporting skeleton has a longitudinal extentcorresponding at least to a maximum length of the upper run.
 11. Theline guide device as set forth in claim 1, wherein: the carriers haveend fixing members for concatenating longitudinally successivesupporting skeletons.
 12. The line guide device as set forth in claim11, wherein: the end fixing members comprise conjugated clip connectors.13. The line guide device as set forth in claim 1, wherein: the carriershave lateral fixing members for connection to a further supportingskeleton of a further sheath.
 14. The line guide device as set forth inclaim 1, wherein: the transverse ribs are flexible about thelongitudinal direction and extend in a shape of a circular arc in across-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.
 15. The lineguide device as set forth claim 1, wherein: the sheath is formed ofplastic.
 16. The line guide device as set forth in claim 1, wherein: thesheath has an asymmetric bending characteristic in a first longitudinalportion and an oppositely asymmetric bending characteristic in a secondlongitudinal portion, and/or the sheath has an asymmetric bendingcharacteristic in a longitudinal portion and a symmetrical bendingcharacteristic in another longitudinal portion.
 17. The line guidedevice as set forth in claim 2, wherein: the projections cooperate incentring relationship.
 18. The line guide device as set forth in claim3, wherein: the supporting skeleton has flexible holding arms projectingin the peripheral direction for holding the supporting skeleton inclip-like relationship on the corrugated tubular sheath.
 19. The lineguide device as set forth in claim 18, wherein an intermediate spacingand a width of the holding arms in the longitudinal direction operate tolimit a minimum curvature radius in the direction-changing curve. 20.The line guide device as set forth in claim 3, wherein: the corrugatedprofile of the sheath is corrugated in parallel ring-shape form.
 21. Theline guide device as set forth in claim 3, wherein: the supportingskeleton has wedge-shaped or V-shaped extensions which engage over aperipheral extent into the corrugated profile, and which predetermine aminimum curvature radius of the direction-changing curve.
 22. The lineguide device as set forth in claim 3, wherein: the sheath itself guidesand carries the lines and/or in comparison with a desired concavecurvature about the direction-changing axis, the corrugated tubularsheath permits only a very slight or substantially no convex bendingsag.
 23. The line guide device as set forth claim 3, wherein: a staticconvex bending sag is limited to a radius which is a multiple, inparticular at least 10 times, greater than a static bending radius ofthe corrugated tubular sheath upon concave curvature.
 24. A module for asupporting skeleton for producing a line guide device using a corrugatedtube with a corrugated profile, comprising: the module formed in onepiece of plastic, having a longitudinal extent and fitable from anoutside to the corrugated tube, wherein the module has a plurality oftransverse ribs extending in a peripheral direction transverselyrelative to the longitudinal extent, wherein the module has two mutuallyopposite carriers which extend in a longitudinal direction and whichcarry the transverse ribs, and wherein the transverse ribs are at leastpartially engageable into the corrugated profile of the corrugated tube,or wherein the transverse ribs include projections projecting in thelongitudinal direction such that the transverse ribs are in abuttingcontact with each other in a straight or self-supporting position.
 25. Akit of parts of a line guide device, the kit comprising: a corrugatedtube that surrounds an internal space, a separate supporting skeleton tobe fitted externally to the corrugated tube for achieving or enhancingan asymmetric bending behaviour in relation to curvature about adirection-changing axis and to opposite curvature, and wherein thesupporting skeleton has a plurality of transverse ribs which extend in aperipheral direction and two mutually opposite carriers which extend ina longitudinal direction and which carry the plurality of transverseribs.